Cryptography, Network Security, and Application Security

Overview

Updated in May 2025. This course now features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. In an era where cybersecurity threats are ever-evolving, this course equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to protect your organization's digital assets. You'll master the fundamentals of cryptography, network security, and application security, ensuring your proficiency in combating a range of threats. The course begins with an in-depth exploration of cryptographic principles, including hashing, salting, encryption, non-repudiation, and secure protocols. You'll gain hands-on experience with Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) systems and delve into the vulnerabilities of cryptographic attacks. Each module ensures practical insights that translate directly to your role as a security professional. Next, the journey takes you into network and communications security, where you'll examine concepts like the OSI model, IP networking, and network topologies. You'll also learn to secure wireless communications, manage network-based security devices, and mitigate network attacks. The module is designed to enhance your strategic and operational approach to network defense. Finally, the focus shifts to systems and application security, addressing malicious code, endpoint security, and mobile device management. You'll also cover critical aspects of cloud security, including legal and regulatory concerns, secure virtual environments, and data protection. This course is perfect for those aiming to excel in roles like cybersecurity analyst, network security engineer, or systems administrator.

Syllabus

Cryptography

In this module, we will delve into the core concepts of cryptography, exploring its necessity in securing sensitive information. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of hashing, salting, encryption methods, and non-repudiation, alongside the importance of secure protocols like IPsec and PKI. By the end of the module, you will also be equipped to recognize and address potential cryptographic attacks and reinforce your knowledge of key points for the SSCP exam.

Network and Communications Security

In this module, we will explore the essentials of network and communications security. Topics include the OSI model, IP networking, software-defined networking (SDN), and the deployment of network-based security devices. You will also learn how to manage network access controls, secure wireless communications, and identify key focus areas for the SSCP exam. By the end of this section, you will have the knowledge to safeguard communication systems against various threats.

Systems and Application Security

In this module, we will focus on the security measures required for systems and applications. From mitigating malicious code and managing endpoint devices to ensuring cloud and virtual environment security, this section provides a holistic approach to safeguarding critical systems. You will also understand the legal and regulatory challenges of cloud security and master key points for the SSCP exam. By the end, you will be well-prepared to implement robust application security practices.